New speaker urged to be fair in office

NEWLY-elected Speaker Job Pomat has been advised to be fair to both sides of Parliament. Manus Governor Charlie Benjamin, when congratulating Manus MP Pomat, said: “I know you are capable and you will be fair.” Rabaul MP Dr Allan Marat said: “In the past, we have had some slight struggles with the chair. “We are looking forward to strict observance of the separation of power between the legislature, the national executive and the judicial arm of this government.” Prime Minister Peter O’Neill told Pomat that as “a Christian, principled man”, he should lead the House well. “We have trust and confidence in your ability to uphold the integrity of this honourable office,” he said. Pomat said he would need help from both sides of the House to carry out his duty. “I am humbled and seek to restore the integrity of this Parliament,” he said. “But I will need help from both sides of the House, experienced men who can guide me so that this Parliament can be seen to be working to serve the people.”